What You Should Know About Fluoride Treatments

Posted February 7, 2017.

Fluoride can be a controversial topic. Some say it’s a dangerous substance, but most believe it’s good for the health of your teeth. If you’re interested in making this decision for yourself, there are a few things you should know.

Though some may disagree, there are a number of benefits to using fluoride. For example, did you know that you’ll be far less likely to get gum disease if you use a toothpaste with fluoride in it? However, fluoride shouldn’t be swallowed—though you’d have to consume a huge amount of fluoride to suffer any real damage. Still, you should avoid giving your little ones toothpaste with fluoride until they’re able to spit it out on their own.

Many dentists offer fluoride treatments. These treatments don’t usually take more than a few minutes, and can come in many forms, including a gel, foam, or varnish. If you decide on this treatment, we’ll apply your fluoride with a cotton swab, brush, or with a tray. After the treatment, you should avoid foods and beverages for at least 30 minutes. This will give your teeth a chance to absorb the fluoride.

If you have any questions about how fluoride will affect your oral health, please don’t hesitate to contact Arden Dental Group by calling us at 828-684-9260. Our dentist, Dr. Joseph Younger, and our team will be happy to answer any questions you have. We’re excited to meet with you soon.